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Why Samoa is the ultimate Valentine’s Day destination to say ‘I do

With Valentine’s Day inspiring proposals and wedding planning for 2026 and beyond, Samoa is emerging as a top destination for couples seeking a tropical island wedding. Couples can exchange vows in a variety of romantic natural settings while enjoying warm Pacific Island hospitality.


Whether planning a barefoot ceremony for two or a larger celebration with family and friends, couples have flexibility and choice, with ceremonies possible on beaches, beside waterfalls, in tropical gardens, or at luxury resorts specialising in destination weddings.


Many resorts offer experienced on-site wedding planners to manage everything from the ceremony, flowers, catering, photography, and entertainment, while local planners can create bespoke experiences, including access to secluded locations and guidance on Samoan customs.


From white-sand beaches and lush gardens to luxury waterfront resorts, Samoa has accommodation to suit all budgets, and with direct air connections from New Zealand, Australia and Fiji to the capital, Apia, Samoa is an idyllic setting for saying “I do.”



The legal requirements

Marriages performed in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide. Couples must apply for a marriage licence either before arrival, or at least 10 days before the ceremony (and no more than three months in advance). Applications are handled by the Justice Department in Apia via email or phone, and many resorts and wedding planners can assist, making the process straightforward and stress-free.


Add a touch of Samoan culture

Couples can also weave Samoan traditions into their wedding day. Grooms and guests may wear the traditional Polynesian lavalava - a wraparound skirt or sarong, while floral garlands (ula) and ceremonial headpieces add a distinctive local feel. Celebrations can include traditional feasts cooked in an umu (stone oven), alongside vibrant music and dance performances such as the elegant Siva or the dramatic Siva Afi fire knife dance.


The honeymoon starts immediately

One of the biggest draws of getting married in Samoa is that the honeymoon begins the moment the ceremony ends. Newlyweds can retreat to a private beachside villa, explore coral reefs, enjoy spa treatments, or simply unwind surrounded by Samoa’s natural beauty.


“Samoa offers couples the chance to swap the ordinary for the extraordinary,” said Seb Sarrasin, Trade Account Director, Samoa Tourism Authority, UK and Europe. “With ABTA’s trends report 2026 showing travel to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands has seen the strongest growth of any long-haul region, more couples are looking to the South Pacific for once-in-a-lifetime weddings and honeymoons. Samoa delivers romance, authenticity and unforgettable settings from the moment couples arrive.”


For more information about getting married in Samoa, visit: www.samoa.travel/plan-book/getting-married-in-samoa/ 



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